To determine whether a Siamese fighting fish is about to die, you can observe its physical condition and behavioral changes. Here are some common signs:
Decreased Appetite: If the Siamese fighting fish loses interest in food and eats less and less, it may be a sign that it is not feeling well or is approaching the end of its life.
Reduced Swimming: The fish becomes less active in swimming and often stays at the bottom of the fish tank or hides in the corner, which indicates a decline in its mobility.
Change in Body Color: The body color of the Siamese fighting fish becomes dull, and it may even experience fading. This is usually caused by health problems or aging.
Frequent Breathing: If the fish's breathing becomes more frequent, it may be a sign of illness or aging.
Lying on Its Side or Appearing Weak: When the Siamese fighting fish lies on its side against the wall of the tank or at the bottom and looks extremely weak, it shows that its physical functions are deteriorating.
Edema: If the fish shows signs of edema, especially swelling in the abdomen, it may indicate problems with its internal organs.
Pinecone Scales: When the scales stand up, looking as if the fish is wearing a layer of armor, it is one of the signs that the Siamese fighting fish is not feeling well or is about to die.
Lack of Vitality: The fish appears listless and is slow to respond to external stimuli. It may even show little reaction to its favorite toys or the mirror.
Excessive Sleepiness: The Siamese fighting fish is lazier and sleeps more than usual, which may be due to health problems or aging.
Nitrite Poisoning: If the nitrite content in the fish tank is too high, the abdomen of the Siamese fighting fish may become red and swollen, which is a sign of poisoning.
Preventive Measures and Nursing Suggestions:
Control Feeding Amount: Avoid overfeeding to prevent water pollution and indigestion.
Keep the Water Clean: Change the water regularly to ensure the water quality is clean and avoid excessive ammonia nitrogen and nitrite levels.
Adjust the Water Temperature: Make sure the water temperature stays within the appropriate range and avoid it being too low or too high.
Provide Sufficient Activity Space: Ensure that the Siamese fighting fish has enough space to move around to avoid mental stress and health problems caused by a cramped environment.
Isolate in a Timely Manner: If you notice any fighting among the Siamese fighting fish, isolate them immediately to prevent injuries or deaths due to fighting.
Regularly Check the Water Quality and Temperature: Use testing tools to regularly check the water quality and temperature to ensure they are within the appropriate range.